Dubai is well-known for its impressive dining scene, and one of the most popular culinary experiences is trying its traditional Arabic cuisine. Dubai boasts a wealth of Arabic restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to fine-dining establishments. From traditional flavors to modern interpretations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we’ll explore the best Arabic restaurants in Dubai and must-try dishes for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Topics Covered:
- How Many Traditional Arabic Restaurants Are in Dubai?
- What is Khaleeji Cuisine?
- What Are the Must-Try Arabic Dishes?
- What Are the Most Expensive Arabic Restaurants in Dubai?
- What are the Best Arabic Restaurants in Dubai?
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- ZouZou Turkish & Lebanese Restaurant | Jumeirah 1 Opposite Lamer
- Samad Al Iraqi Restaurant
- Al Hallab
- Al Safadi Restaurant Sheikh Zayed Road
- Awani
- Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe – DFC
- Al Hallab Bab El Bahr
- Abd El Wahab, Souk Al Bahar
- Leila Restaurant
- Jabbour Lebanese Restaurant
- Zahr El Laymoun Alasly
- Al Falamanki Dubai
- Wafi Gourmet
- Al Safadi Restaurant The Pointe
- Beirut Khanum
- Ninive
- Al Mandaloun
- Mama’s Bites Lebanese Restaurant in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Aseelah Middle Eastern & Emirati Restaurant
- Al Khaima
- Closing Thoughts on the Best Arabic Restaurants in Dubai
How Many Traditional Arabic Restaurants Are in Dubai?
When it comes to Arabic cuisine, Dubai is a food lover’s paradise. Dubai hosts over 400 Arabic restaurants, each offering its unique culinary experience. From street food stalls to fine dining establishments, there’s something for everyone in Dubai’s vibrant food scene.
One of the reasons for Dubai’s impressive culinary offerings is its diverse population. The city is home to people from all over the world, including a significant number of Arabs. This cultural melting pot has led to the creation of a myriad of Arabic restaurants that specialize in regional cuisine from different Arabic countries.
For example, if you’re in the mood for Lebanese food, you can head to Al Hallab or Al Safadi. Both restaurants offer a range of traditional Lebanese dishes, including mezze, grilled meats, and fresh salads. If Syrian cuisine is more your style, you might want to check out Al Shami Restaurant, which is known for its delicious shawarma and falafel.
But Arabic cuisine is not just about hummus and falafel. Each Arabic country has its unique culinary traditions, and Dubai’s restaurants reflect this diversity. For example, if you’re looking for Egyptian food, you can head to El Malek Restaurant, which serves up hearty dishes like koshari and molokhia.
Of course, no discussion of Arabic cuisine in Dubai would be complete without mentioning ouzi. This traditional Emirati dish consists of spiced rice and meat, usually lamb or chicken, that’s slow-cooked in a special oven. You can find ouzi on the menu at many Arabic restaurants in Dubai, including Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe, which specializes in Emirati cuisine.
So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, if you’re looking for a taste of authentic Arabic cuisine, Dubai is the place to be. With so many restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds.
What is Khaleeji Cuisine?
Khaleeji cuisine refers to the traditional food of the Gulf region, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. It is a rich and diverse cuisine that has been influenced by various cultures and traditions over the years.
The cuisine of the Gulf region is known for its bold flavors and aromatic spices. The use of spices like saffron, cumin, turmeric, and cinnamon is prevalent in many dishes. Rice is a staple in Khaleeji cuisine and is often served with grilled meat or seafood.
One of the most popular Khaleeji dishes is Machboos, a spiced rice dish that is often made with chicken, lamb, or fish. The rice is cooked with a blend of spices and is usually served with a side of tomato and onion salad.
Another must-try Khaleeji dish is Saloona, a vegetable stew that is made with a variety of vegetables like eggplant, okra, and tomatoes. The vegetables are cooked in a tomato-based broth and are often served with rice or bread.
For those with a sweet tooth, Luqaimat is a must-try dessert. These small, sweet pastry balls are made with flour, yeast, sugar, and saffron and are often served with a drizzle of honey or syrup.
Khaleeji cuisine is not only known for its delicious food but also for its hospitality. In the Gulf region, it is customary to share food with family and friends, and guests are often welcomed with a generous spread of traditional dishes.
Overall, Khaleeji cuisine is a unique and flavorful cuisine that is well worth exploring. From rich stews to sweet pastries, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
What Are the Must-Try Arabic Dishes?
Arabic cuisine is known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. From savory dips to meaty kebabs, there are plenty of dishes to try.
1. Hummus
Hummus is a staple in Arabic cuisine and is enjoyed all over the world. This creamy dip is made with chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic, and is usually served with warm pita bread. The combination of tangy and nutty flavors makes it a perfect appetizer or snack.
2. Shawarma
Shawarma is a popular street food in the Middle East and is now enjoyed worldwide. This wrap is made with thinly sliced meat, usually chicken or beef, mixed with vegetables and sauces. The meat is cooked on a rotating spit, giving it a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Shawarma is a perfect meal on the go and can be customized to suit your taste.
3. Kebabs
Kebabs are a must-try dish for meat lovers. These grilled meat skewers are seasoned with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika. Kebabs can be made with beef, chicken, or lamb and are usually served with a side of vegetables or rice. The tender meat and bold flavors make kebabs a popular dish in Arabic cuisine.
4. Biryani
Biryani is a highly spiced rice dish that is usually served with chicken or lamb. This flavorful dish is made with fragrant basmati rice, mixed with a blend of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and saffron. The meat is cooked with the rice, allowing the flavors to meld together. Biryani is a staple in Arabic cuisine and is enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations.
No matter what your taste preferences are, Arabic cuisine has something for everyone. From the savory dips to the meaty kebabs, these must-try dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
What Are the Most Expensive Arabic Restaurants in Dubai?
Dubai is a city that is well-known for its luxurious lifestyle and dining experiences. When it comes to Arabic cuisine, Dubai has some of the most expensive and exquisite restaurants in the world. These restaurants offer not only delicious food but also a unique and unforgettable experience that is worth every penny.
One of the most luxurious eateries in the city is Al Mahara, located in the Burj Al Arab Hotel. This seafood restaurant has a stunning aquarium that surrounds the dining area, offering guests a unique and unforgettable experience. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including lobster, oysters, and caviar. The restaurant’s interior is also breathtaking, with a stunning staircase leading down to the dining area.
Another fine-dining Arabic restaurant is Al Iwan, located in the iconic Burj Khalifa. This opulent establishment serves traditional Arabic cuisine with panoramic views of the city. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of dishes, including lamb chops, grilled prawns, and falafel. The restaurant’s interior is also impressive, with a stunning gold-plated entrance and a large dining area with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of the city.
For those looking for a more traditional Arabic dining experience, there is the Al Hadheerah restaurant, located in the Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa. This restaurant offers a unique dining experience, with traditional Arabic entertainment, including belly dancing and live music. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of traditional Arabic dishes, including lamb ouzi, shish taouk, and tabbouleh.
Dubai is also home to the Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe, which offers a unique dining experience that takes guests back in time to the 1960s. The restaurant’s interior is designed to look like an old Emirati house, complete with traditional decor and furnishings. The menu features a variety of traditional Arabic dishes, including machboos, madhbi, and thareed.
What are the Best Arabic Restaurants in Dubai?
We have long discussed the food and the Traditional Arabic restaurant scene in Dubai. The venues in the city are the ones in charge of bringing these traditions to locals, visitors, and ex-pats, and, despite being numerous, there is only a selection that continues to impress guests. These places have raving reviews and are quite busy, so you might want to book in one of the following restaurants.
1. ZouZou Turkish & Lebanese Restaurant | Jumeirah 1 Opposite Lamer
The best Turkish and Lebanese cuisine in Dubai is provided at ZouZou, a laid-back restaurant with a rustic dining area and outdoor seating. Jumeira 1 is situated to the south of La Mer.
Type of cuisine: Arabic/Turkish/Lebanese
Location: ZouZou Turkish & Lebanese Restaurant | Jumeirah 1 Opposite Lamer, Jumeria 1, Jumeria Rd – 47 A St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
ZouZou Turkish & Lebanese Restaurant | Jumeirah 1 Opposite Lamer Website
Phone number: +971 4 343 0093
ZouZou Turkish & Lebanese Restaurant | Jumeirah 1 Opposite Lamer Instagram Account
2. Samad Al Iraqi Restaurant
A restaurant with classic stone walls and arched windows serving specialties from Iraq. In Samad Al Iraqi, they are aiming to cater to traditional tastes in a discerning context of cultural architecture. Mesopotamian cuisine has a vast history that dates back more than 6,000 years. Their cuisine is influenced by the Sumerian, Akkadian, Babylonian, and Assyrian cultures, which are reflected in the food preparation methods used in those civilizations’ temple-based religious events.
Type of cuisine: Arabic/Iraqi
Location: Samad Al Iraqi Restaurant، Jumeirah Beach Park Plaza ,Opp.Jumeirah Beach Park Centre – Jumeirah Beach Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Samad Al Iraqi Restaurant Website
Phone number: +971 4 342 7887
Samad Al Iraqi Restaurant Instagram Account
3. Al Hallab
One of the traditional, roomy Lebanese restaurants in Dubai Mall, with a balcony overlooking the fountain. Al Hallab relocated to Dubai in order to develop the Al Hallab brand under the guidance of a family-run enterprise with vast hospitality industry knowledge into a recognized full-service Lebanese restaurant. It encourages you to enjoy mouthwatering pastries and warm Arabic hospitality while in the United Arab Emirates.
Type of cuisine: Arabic/Lebanese
Location: Al Hallab, The Dubai Mall – Second floor – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone number: +97143308828
4. Al Safadi Restaurant Sheikh Zayed Road
Another great place for Lebanese food and its variety of specialties is Al Safadi’s Rigga location. Try the same delectable shawarmas, homestyle dishes, seafood, falafel, manakish, foul, and other menu favorites, whether you order in person, by delivery, or for takeout or delivery.
Type of cuisine: Arabic/Lebanese
Location: Al Safadi Restaurant Rigga, Al Dana Building – Al Rigga Rd – Deira – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
WAl Safadi Restaurant Sheikh Zayed Road Website
Phone number: +971600500601
Al Safadi Restaurant Sheikh Zayed Road Instagram Account
5. Awani
With a variety of internationally renowned treats and distinctive oriental flavors that appeal to both the local and international public, this modern, innovative concept offers fusion Levantine cuisine that honors centuries-old culinary traditions.
Type of cuisine: Arabic
Location: Awani, Unit SF – 059 – Financial Center Rd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone number: +971 4 243 2758
6. Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe – DFC
With the ambiance of Dubai in the 1960s, and with the taste of Authentic Emirati Cuisine, AL FANAR RESTAURANT and CAFÉwill revive the memories of Dubai when it was a small town on the shore of the Arabian Gulf at an idyllic spot close to the creek-with rows of wind towers surrounded by Al Badia oasis, with tents and Barasti huts where fishermen, pearl merchants, and Bedouin lived.
Type of cuisine: Arabic
Location: Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe – DFC، Ground Floor, Dubai Festival City Mall, Near P.F.Chang’s, Canal Walk – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe – DFC Website
Phone number: +971 4 232 9966
Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe – DFC Instagram Account
7. Al Hallab Bab El Bahr
Modern restaurant with outdoor seating that serves fish prepared in the Mediterranean and Lebanese markets. Inspired by Lebanese coastal cuisine, BAB EL BAHR aims to preserve the Mediterranean seafood legacy of Lebanon by utilizing the freshest ingredients and served market style, allowing diners to choose their own fish for our cooks to prepare.
Type of cuisine: Arabic/Lebanese
Location: Al Hallab Bab El Bahr, 29 Burj Dubai Boulevard – Moh’d Bin Rashed Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone number: +971 4 456 2881
Al Hallab Bab El Bahr Instagram Account
8. Abd El Wahab, Souk Al Bahar
Traditional Lebanese food is served at Abd El Wahab on a patio that is covered and overlooks a lovely lake. In an oriental-style setting with damascene walls, metal accents, and blown glass components, it offers typical Lebanese hospitality.
Type of cuisine: Arabic
Location: Abd El Wahab, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Burj Khalifa Souk Al Bahar – 3rd Level – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Abd El Wahab, Souk Al Bahar Website
Phone number: +97144230988
Abd El Wahab, Souk Al Bahar Instagram Account
9. Leila Restaurant
Leila offers authentically traditional Lebanese cuisine and shisha in a chic, nostalgic chain restaurant with a courtyard. You will obtain the best recommendations from their friendly staff, and the service is first-rate. Visitors laud the freshly steamed bread favorably.
Type of cuisine: Arabic/Lebanese
Location: Leila Restaurant, Clarens Tower 2 – 17 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone number: +97144483384
Leila Restaurant Instagram Account
10. Jabbour Lebanese Restaurant
You’ll feel at home at the Jabbour restaurant. Traditional Lebanese taste is unlike any other. Every bite will tell you the story of the Lebanese housewife who made it, and you will be moving from the highest Lebanese mountains to every corner of the Lebanese coast in a deliciously traditional Lebanese meal.
Type of cuisine: Arabic/Lebanese
Location: Jabbour Lebanese Restaurant, Boutique 7 Building – Barsha Heights – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Jabbour Lebanese Restaurant Website
Phone number: +971 4 434 5500
Jabbour Lebanese Restaurant Instagram Account
11. Zahr El Laymoun Alasly
A good venue to enjoy a mouthwatering dinner while seeing the scenery and the water fountain show in the Shopping Mall. The majority of their food is Arabic, although you may also discover various delicacies from other continents. Despite being situated in a popular tourist district in Dubai, the costs are actually pretty affordable given the surroundings.
Type of cuisine: Arabic
Location: Zahr El Laymoun Alasly, Shopping Mall, Souk Al Bahar – Level 2 – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Website: N/A
Phone number: +971 4 242 3366
Zahr El Laymoun Alasly Instagram Account
12. Al Falamanki Dubai
Al Falamanki, a charmingly rustic and traditional Lebanese café, is situated in the city’s center. Its entrance is always open for anyone who craves authentic Arabic food.
Type of cuisine: Arabic
Location: Al Falamanki Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Rd – across Four Seasons Resort – Jumeirah – Jumeirah 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone number: +971 55 300 4550
Al Falamanki Dubai Instagram Account
13. Wafi Gourmet
The premier Lebanese restaurant in the city is Wafi Gourmet. Wafi Gourmet is a one-of-a-kind restaurant and retail space that is enriched with genuine goods from Lebanon that are distinctive in terms of quality, flavor, and appearance. Genuine Lebanese culinary connoisseurs will struggle to resist the many tantalizing temptations for which we are known. An informal atmosphere is used to serve mezze, kebabs, shawarma, seafood, Arabic sweets/pastries, and homemade ice cream.
Type of cuisine: Arabic/Lebanese
Location: Wafi Gourmet, Unit LG – 096 – B [level LG], Unit LG – 096 – 1, Unit LG – 096 – Financial Center Rd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone number: +97143308297
Wafi Gourmet Instagram Account
14. Al Safadi Restaurant The Pointe
The Lebanese restaurant chain Al Safadi at The Pointe is a perfect example of the variety and authenticity of Lebanese food within Dubai. The menu also features every facet of Lebanese cuisine. You can’t go wrong with Al Safadi whether you want to eat in and smoke shisha as you enjoy your meal in a lovely setting or you want takeout or delivery to enjoy at home.
Type of cuisine: Arabic/Lebanese
Location: Al Safadi Restaurant The Pointe, The Pointe – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Al Safadi Restaurant The Pointe Website
Phone number: +971 600 500601
Al Safadi Restaurant The Pointe Instagram Account
15. Beirut Khanum
In the heart of Dubai, Beirut Khanum is a restaurant and café that offers delicious Lebanese food, exceptional desserts, and beverages in a tranquil setting on the Boulevard. Additionally, you can use its catering services for your own personal events.
Type of cuisine: Arabic/Lebanese
Location: Beirut Khanum, Palace cafe – Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone number: +97142413334
Beirut Khanum Instagram Account
16. Ninive
The restaurant is suspended, as if floating, in the middle of a hot city neighborhood while also being in the middle of a desert.
Type of cuisine: Arabic
Location: Ninive, Emirates Towers Hotel – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone number: +971 4 326 6105
17. Al Mandaloun
Al Mandaloun, a true Lebanese restaurant, debuted in the heart of Dubai International Financial Center in 2005. Since then, they have put a lot of effort into creating a fine restaurant that embodies the warmth of the Lebanese welcome. Al Mandaloun’s ambiance is designed for a busy clientele that values excellent food and prompt service.
Type of cuisine: Arabic/Lebanese
Location: Al Mandaloun, Gate Village, Building 3 – towards DIFC Parking – Trade Centre – DIFC – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone number: +97143637474
Al Mandaloum Instagram Account
18. Mama’s Bites Lebanese Restaurant in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Mama’s Bite serves as an extension of the dining room where you, your loved ones, and your friends assemble to create memories. As you enter, you’ll be telling stories about my family that inspired the idea for Mama’s Bite.
Type of cuisine: Arabic
Location: Mama’s Bites Lebanese Restaurant in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Central Park DIFC – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Mama’s Bites Lebanese Restaurant in Dubai, United Arab Emirates Website
Phone number: +971 4 266 6262
Mama’s Bites Lebanese Restaurant in Dubai, United Arab Emirates Instagram Account
19. Aseelah Middle Eastern & Emirati Restaurant
At Aseelah, savor the flavors of Emirati and Middle Eastern cuisine as well as the warmth of their hospitality.
Type of cuisine: Arabic
Location: Aseelah Middle Eastern & Emirati Restaurant, Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Aseelah Middle Eastern & Emirati Restaurant Website
Phone number: +971 4 205 7033
Aseelah Middle Eastern & Emirati Restaurant Instagram Account
20. Al Khaima
Al Khaima, the stately Arabic restaurant situated on the charming grounds of Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, has reopened with a completely new look and feel, offering the best of Middle Eastern food in a relaxed yet elegant setting. The idyllic setting has been updated to provide guests with an elevated eating experience that pays homage to the region’s traditional foods while serving them for the contemporary day.
Type of cuisine: Arabic
Location: Al Khaima, Al Mamsha Street, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone number: +97143165550
Closing Thoughts on the Best Arabic Restaurants in Dubai
In conclusion, Dubai’s dining scene has something for everyone, but the city’s Arabic restaurants are truly exceptional. From traditional flavors to modern interpretations, there’s something for every palate. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable culinary journey, be sure to try the must-try Arabic dishes and explore the best Arabic restaurants in Dubai.
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